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HIGH-POWERED row-crop tractors rated over 150 hp are in high demand this year. According to Jason Hoult, product manager for AGCO Corporation, sales in this market segment were up more than 30% in 2008 and remain strong this year.

Tractors in this class offer the power of the larger-framed 4-wd tractors but in a narrow fixed frame configuration designed for navigating between the rows.

“It's really the main tractor on the farm, and the rest of the product line follows it,” Hoult says. “Farmers make their purchase decisions around the big, high-horsepower row-crop tractor, and it allows us to demonstrate our dealer service and product capability. For tractor makers, it's the price of admission in the Corn and Wheat Belts.”

We've compiled summaries and specs for these tractors to help you make your best buy, whether you're looking for a bare-bones workhorse or an optioned-up office cruiser.

AGCO DT SERIES

AGCO says its newly designed DT series tractors are built to support conservation of resources, strong environmental stewardship, and strong performance and endurance.

The series features four models that range from 205 to 275 PTO hp. The new AGCO Sisu Power 8.4-liter engine is equipped with e3 clean air technology, a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology, to significantly reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulates. The e3 trademark stands for energy, economy and ecology.

The standard-equipment continuously variable transmission (CVT), coupled with the Dynamic Tractor Management system, makes it easier for the tractor to run constantly at the most efficient engine rpm while maintaining high productivity.

A one-piece hood gives easy access to the engine and improves forward visibility. A new sculpted chassis, with a new front axle, provides a solid foundation for the DT series tractors. And the front axle is heavier, with larger final drives for strength to handle larger draft loads and weight.

CASE IH MAGNUM SERIES

Case IH's mid- to high-horsepower row-crop tractors fall under its Magnum series lineup. Nine models make up the series, ranging from 150 to 275 PTO hp. The line's newest model, the Magnum 225, comes standard with a new Case IH CVT. The CVT is available as an option on the Magnum 180, 190 and 210 models.

The company claims its CVT is easier to operate than others because it requires no programming or complicated settings. It automatically adjusts to deliver the best balance of power and fuel efficiency when working at field speeds pulling a load.

The Magnum series engine continues to be rated for up to 100% biodiesel blend when used with approved Case IH maintenance procedures.

Case IH claims its Surveyor cab is one of the larger and quieter cabs in the industry with 360° visibility. The new MultiControl Armrest, the latest in Case IH tractor-control technology, is standard in the Magnum 180, 190, 210 and 225 series tractors. It simplifies operation — including speed, hydraulics, and hitch functions — by putting the controls in one easily accessible location at the operator's fingertips. Adding the optional, integrated joystick provides simultaneous control of optional third mid-mount implements, such as a loader grapple.

The Magnum tractors feature a sculpted front end that allows a 16-ft. turning radius with typical row-crop tires.

CHALLENGER MT700C SERIES

The MT700C is a track tractor series designed for row-crop work, tillage and transport applications. Available with a choice of track widths and belt sizes, the tractors can match almost any row width, soil type, farming practice or cropping program. Two models offer engine horsepower ratings of 301 and 320.

Features of the MT700C series include a new digital dash display that indicates selected gear, ground speed and service hours; a redesigned Tractor Management Center console that provides simpler, more intuitive operation; a new hydraulics system with a higher degree of control, higher flow and greater adaptability; and an integrated ISOBUS control system. The tractors are sold, serviced and backed by Caterpillar dealers.

CHALLENGER MT600C SERIES

The Challenger MT600C series offers four models that range from 205 to 275 PTO hp. The series features an all-new TechStar CVT, which provides infinitely variable forward speed selection up to 31 mph. A feature called Power Management automatically coordinates the engine and transmission to minimize rpm, maximize power to the ground and optimize fuel economy.

AGCO says the tractors' new e3 clean air technology treats exhaust to meet Tier 3 and future EPA standards while providing undiminished horsepower and torque and fuel efficiency that is up to 15% better than that of competitive models.

The four-post cab Pinnacle View is surrounded by 67 sq. ft. of glass for a 360° view and is 28% larger than the previous model. The Challenger Tractor Management Center puts command of nearly every implement and tractor function at the operator's fingertips. An ergonomic cab layout and new OptiRide cab suspension system are designed to provide comfort and office-like conditions.